Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye (MENAT) region, has announced the launch of the fourth cohort of its bespoke National Digital Talent Incubator (NDTI)® program. This initiative is supported by a cluster of world-class industry partners, including the DIFC Innovation Hub, Visa, Microsoft, and Dell Technologies. The NDTI program, which has already concluded three successful editions, is dedicated to discovering and nurturing the next generation of UAE National FinTech innovators. The FinTech sector significantly contributes to the UAE's economy, currently accounting for 8.7% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The six-to-eight week incubator program is meticulously designed to empower promising Emirati FinTech leaders. It provides them with essential resources, comprehensive mentorship, and valuable networking opportunities crucial for scaling their pioneering ventures. A core objective of the program is to drive the UAE’s digital transformation agenda by enhancing the country’s talent pool and fostering the growth of entrepreneurship within the burgeoning FinTech space.

The fourth cohort features a diverse group of startups poised to address key sectors with innovative solutions. These include QuickPay, a digital platform focused on accelerating invoice payments in the real estate sector; Carbon2Capital, an AI-powered platform enabling businesses to effectively track, reduce, and offset their carbon emissions; Jadwelny, an AI-powered travel platform designed to personalize and automate trip planning; and Watermelon LTD, a comprehensive F&B ecosystem connecting manufacturers, farmers, and F&B outlets.

Building on the achievements of previous cohorts, the fourth iteration of the program will introduce several key enhancements. Participating startups will benefit from tailored interactions with decision-makers and have opportunities to meet individually with senior Emirates NBD stakeholders relevant to their specific industry sectors. They will also engage in more meaningful discussions with mentors during dedicated Immersion Days with partners and through Emirates NBD’s Decision Makers Series, where founders can connect with Senior Leaders from the Group. Furthermore, FinTech founders will network with industry leaders and renowned SMEs, while receiving expert guidance on venture capitalist pitching. A significant highlight will be an international trip to London in June 2025, allowing these leaders to tap into a vibrant ecosystem, learn from the UK's advanced FinTech landscape, and build connections and confidence to scale their businesses globally.

Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, stated: “Emirates NBD is proud to welcome the fourth cohort of the National Digital Talent Incubator Program. Solidifying our commitment to supporting the UAE’s vision for a thriving digital economy, the program creates opportunities for FinTech startups to flourish and contribute to the investment environment within the UAE. By providing these talented entrepreneurs with access to the mentorship, networking, and investment, we are helping them build innovative solutions that will positively impact the industry and economy.”

Mohammad Alblooshi, Chief Executive Officer of the DIFC Innovation Hub, commented: “Empowering the next generation of Emirati FinTech talent is essential to shaping a future-ready digital-driven economy. At DIFC Innovation Hub, we are proud to support initiatives like the National Digital Talent Incubator that align with our mission to nurture high-potential founders and accelerate the growth of homegrown ventures. By collaborating with Emirates NBD and other leading partners, we are creating a thriving ecosystem where Emirati entrepreneurs can access the tools, mentorship, and global exposure they need to lead the next wave of FinTech innovation from Dubai to the world.”

The NDTI program reflects Emirates NBD's ongoing commitment to innovation and its role as a key enabler of the UAE's digital future. As a leading banking group in the MENAT region with total assets of AED 1 trillion (equivalent to approx. USD 272 billion) as of 31st March 2025, and a significant participant in the global digital banking industry—with 97% of all financial transactions and requests conducted outside of its branches and through platforms like Liv, its lifestyle digital bank—Emirates NBD is uniquely positioned to spearhead such transformative initiatives. By supporting the next generation of Emirati FinTech founders, the bank is actively contributing to a more diversified, knowledge-based economy and upholding the UAE’s main development and sustainability initiatives, including its commitment as Principal Banking Partner of COP28 and support for the Dubai Can initiative.